ROME — Pope Benedict XVI says the world is marked by religious indifference and a "growing aversion" to Christianity.

The pontiff also is urging Christians to overcome their differences through dialogue so that they can unite their efforts to influence debates in society on ethical issues such as abortion, euthanasia and the limits of science and technology.

Benedict spoke as he was leading a Vespers service Monday evening in Rome's Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. The occasion drew to a close a week that the Vatican each year dedicates to prayers for Christian unity.

He decried what he called religious indifference and even "growing aversion" to the Christian faith. (AP)